Ministry of Data and Statistics (KOSTAT): South Korea's National Data Authority
In an era defined by information, the accuracy of national data is vital for effective governance and economic planning. In South Korea, this critical responsibility falls to the Ministry of Data and Statistics, commonly known as KOSTAT. As the primary body for managing national statistics, KOSTAT provides the essential data required to understand the country's evolving demographic and economic landscape.
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Evolution of a National Institution
The organization has a long history of service, originally established in 1990 under the name Statistics Korea. For decades, it operated as a specialized agency focused on data collection and analysis. However, a significant structural shift occurred on October 1, 2025, under the Lee Jae-myung government. During this reorganization, the agency was elevated to a ministerial-level organization and officially renamed the Ministry of Data and Statistics.
Organizational Structure and Leadership
Headquartered in the scientific and administrative hub of Daejeon, the Ministry operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The agency is currently led by Commissioner Lee Hyoung-il, who oversees its mission to maintain high-quality statistical standards for the nation.
Core Responsibilities and Data Collection
KOSTAT serves as the backbone of South Korea's statistical infrastructure. Its primary mandate involves the generation of comprehensive datasets that inform public policy and academic research. This includes the management of administrative statistics—data collected through existing government records—and analytic statistics designed for specific research purposes.
Census and Demographic Tracking
One of the Ministry's most vital functions is the management of the population and household census. While the census was historically conducted every five years (a cycle that continued until 2015), the agency has transitioned to generating these reports on a yearly basis to provide more timely and relevant insights into the nation's changing demographics.
Key Facts
- Current Name: Ministry of Data and Statistics (국가데이터처)
- Former Name: Statistics Korea (통계청)
- Established: 1990
- Headquarters: Daejeon, South Korea
- Parent Agency: Ministry of Economy and Finance
- Current Commissioner: Lee Hyoung-il
- Primary Function: Managing national population, household, and administrative statistics
Agency Overview Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Korean Name (Hangul) | 국가데이터처 |
| Romanization (RR) | Gukga deiteocheo |
| Ministerial Elevation Date | October 1, 2025 |
| Official Website | kostat.go.kr |
| Data Frequency | Yearly population and household census |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Statistics Korea and the Ministry of Data and Statistics?
Statistics Korea was the former name of the organization. On October 1, 2025, the agency was elevated to ministerial status and renamed the Ministry of Data and Statistics.
Where is the KOSTAT headquarters located?
The Ministry of Data and Statistics is headquartered in Daejeon, South Korea.
How often does the Ministry conduct the population census?
While the census was conducted every five years until 2015, the agency now generates population and household census data on a yearly basis.
Which government body oversees the Ministry of Data and Statistics?
The Ministry operates under the authority of the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
What types of statistics does KOSTAT manage?
KOSTAT manages population and household censuses, as well as various analytic and administrative statistics.